Apprenticeships — earn while you learn
Apprenticeship = paid job + training. Minimum £7.55/hour. Refugees are EXEMPT from the 3-year residency rule (but many providers don't know this!). Levels from 2 to 7 (up to a degree). Training is free.
📖 What is an apprenticeship
In simple terms: a company hires you, pays you a salary, and trains you at the same time. You get real experience + a qualification. This is NOT an internship — it is a real job with real pay.
📊 Apprenticeship levels
✅ Refugees — you CAN do an apprenticeship
Normally you need to have lived in the UK for at least 3 years to do an apprenticeship. But there is an exemption for refugees.
If you have Refugee Status or Humanitarian Protection — the 3-year rule does NOT apply. You can start right away.
THE PROBLEM: Many providers and employers do not know about this exemption. They may tell you "you are not eligible". They are wrong.
What to do: Show them the Refugee Council guidance or ESFA (Education and Skills Funding Agency) rules. Your right is confirmed by law.
🔍 How to find an apprenticeship
Frequently asked questions
What is an apprenticeship in simple terms?
An apprenticeship is a paid job + training at the same time. You work for a company (usually 4 days a week) and study (1 day). The employer pays your salary. Training is completely free. At the end you get a qualification — the same as from college or university.
Can refugees do apprenticeships?
YES! Refugees (people with Refugee Status or Humanitarian Protection) are EXEMPT from the 3-year residency rule. This means you can start straight away. IMPORTANT: many providers and employers DO NOT KNOW about this. If they tell you "no" — show them the Refugee Council guidance. Your right is confirmed by ESFA (Education and Skills Funding Agency).
What about asylum seekers?
Unfortunately, asylum seekers (people waiting for a decision) usually CANNOT do apprenticeships. Reason: an apprenticeship is a job, and asylum seekers do not have full permission to work. Exception: if you have been waiting for a decision for more than 12 months and got permission to work — you can work in jobs on the Shortage Occupation List.
How much do apprentices get paid?
Minimum £7.55 per hour (National Minimum Wage for apprentices). This applies if you are under 19 or in your first year. After the first year — full minimum wage for your age (from £7.55 to £12.21/hour). Many employers pay MORE than the minimum, especially in IT, engineering and finance.
Which apprenticeships are most in demand?
Construction and trades (electrician, plumber). IT and digital (software developer, data analyst). Healthcare (healthcare assistant, nursing associate). Business (accountancy, management). Engineering (mechanical, electrical). In 2026, IT and healthcare apprenticeships are especially in demand.